How do I stop myself being a "shouty" mummy?

[unaccomplishedfattylegalmummy]

Seems like all I ever do is shout at my kids. I love them to bits but they drive me up the wall. By 7pm everyday I am ready to murder them. They are not overly naughty, no more no less than any other kids. It just semems to be the only way I can get through to them is shout. They are 5 and 22 months.

I feel like such a terrible parent. I want to let the little things go but I end up so stressed over the stupidest things. I'm also worried about what the neighbours think, as I always seem to be screaming at them in the garden. I must sound so chavvy.

It's worse since dd1 broke up from school as they're constantly winding each other up. Dd1 is actually quite good mostly, it's dd2 with the tantrums and screaming that drives me up the wall.

Any tips on staying calm and sane?

seems

vodka Take some time out when you can. Relax, deep breathing exercises help. Is there a club that dd1 can go to so you can have an hour off?

At 5 you can bribe her to be nice. A star chart could work, 1 star for each half hour of peace, if she gets a desired amount then she can have a treat. I'd ignore dd2. It's the terrible 2's and she'll grow out of it.

You're not a terrible parent; you've got a lot to cope with.

Little children can try to patience of the best of us at times.

When you get really stressed, imagine you are being filmed, and the film will be shown on TV later.

Helps to focus the mind.

Also, don't sweat the small stuff - maybe concentrate on having two or three rules, and let everything else go for a while.

Have a look at the thread on unconditional parenting!